Worcester thwarted by Atiq's big innings

5:56pm Sunday 11th May 2008

AN understrength Worcester side hosted Eastnor in Crusader Worcestershire League Division One and were put to the sword by their overseas batsmen Atiq.

Having won the toss, Worcester started well reducing the visitors to 29 for three with captain Dan Keyte picking up two early wickets.

However Atiq went about rebuilding the innings with Arshad (17) and Emery (30).

The innings gradually gained momentum but the game was in the balance at 180-4 after 40 overs.

A turning point then occurred as Keyte attempting to take a catch in the deep suffered a dislocated finger and was put out of the match.

Atiq added impetus and was the main reason for Eastnor scoring 116 from the last 10 overs.

Atiq finished unbeaten on 162 with six sixes.

Worcester's must successful bowler was McKay with three for 59.

Worcester's reply never challenged the total despite useful knocks from McKay (49) and Foster (43).

The game became a dull affair as stand in captain Liam Kelleher (50 not out) and Nick Walker (23 not out) saw out the remaining overs for a losing draw.